Multicultural association to host 8th annual International Women's Day celebration

Pamela Gerrand (left) and The Women of Substance – Seana-Lee Wood, Verlie Hawkins, and Alison Dale – performed during the Multicultural Association of Perth Huron’s International Women’s Day dinner at Revival House last year. Galen Simmons/The Beacon Herald/Postmedia Network

To mark the accomplishments of women in Stratford and Perth County, the Multicultural Association of Perth Huron is hosting its 8th annual International Women’s Day event at Knox Presbyterian Church on March 8.

Starting at 5 p.m., the event will feature an authentic Spanish dinner by local chef Carlos Mora, live music by local musician Pamela Gerrand, a silent auction, and a series of female guest speakers, including Syrian refugees Fatimah Mohammed and Layla Jabour, who will discuss their journey to Canada and what it took to start their new lives once they arrived.

“We want to celebrate women in our community with diverse music and food,” said multicultural association founder Geza Wordofa, adding that the venue has been moved from Revival House to Knox Presbyterian Church this year to accommodate the growing number of people who attend.

At $30 apiece, tickets include a three-course meal and can be purchased at either Edison’s Café or Fanfare Books. All proceeds from the event will go toward the multicultural association’s youth program and women entrepreneur group.

The multicultural association is still seeking donations for the event’s silent auction. Businesses, organizations, or individuals interested in donating new jewellery, handbags, or other items should email info@MAPH.ca or call 226-339-1547.